Celebrating Disability Pride

As July arrives, the University of East London (UEL) proudly joins the global celebration of Disability Pride Month! This is a time to honour the immense diversity, resilience, and invaluable contributions of disabled individuals across the UK and beyond. For prospective students and visitors exploring UEL, Disability Pride Month serves as a powerful reminder of our unwavering commitment to inclusivity and belonging for all.

What is Disability Pride Month?

Disability Pride Month is celebrated every July. It originated in the US to commemorate the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) signed on July 26, 1990. It’s a vibrant movement that champions the profound idea that disability is a natural and beautiful part of human diversity. It’s a moment to dismantle negative stereotypes, challenge societal stigma, and celebrate the unique identities, cultures, and achievements of disabled people.

At its core, Disability Pride is about self-acceptance, empowerment, and the freedom to be yourself. It’s a collective opportunity to foster positive conversations, raise awareness, and work towards a society free from ableism – the discrimination and social prejudice against people with disabilities.

In the UK, the Equality Act 2010 aims to protect individuals from discrimination and promote a more equal society. 

UEL: a place where you belong

At UEL, we firmly believe that every student deserves to thrive in an environment that understands and champions their unique needs.

Our dedicated Disability and Dyslexia Team is here to ensure that students receive tailored support from the moment they consider joining us. We encourage you to contact the team as early as possible to discuss individual support. That might mean arranging extra time for exams, providing alternative formats for library materials, or sorting out in-class support. However they can help, our team will work with you to create a personalised Teaching and Learning Support Requirements (TLSR) plan.

We handle all information with the utmost confidentiality and respect for your consent. For UK (home) students, the Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) can also provide crucial financial support for equipment, specialist software, travel, and non-medical assistance.

Beyond individual support, UEL is working to be a truly inclusive community. Our Centre for Inclusion and Creative Practice drives initiatives that promote equity across disability, race, gender, sexuality, and socio-economic class. The East London Students' Union also plays a crucial role, with an elected Inclusion Officer dedicated to supporting and promoting our Disabled Students' Communities, organising events that celebrate diversity and foster genuine connection.

Join our inclusive community

Disability Pride Month is an invitation to celebrate who you are. As you consider your future, know that UEL is a place where your unique strengths are recognised and celebrated. We are committed to breaking down barriers and building a university community where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.

We look forward to welcoming you to UEL – where you truly belong!